BerGenBio is a world leader in understanding the central role of AXL kinase in promoting cancer spread, immune evasion and drug resistance – the cause of approximately 90 percent of cancer death.
BerGenBio is developing a number of Axl kinase inhibitors, which represents a novel approach to address the key mechanisms leading to tumours becoming malignant and aggressive. This approach presents BerGenBio with an opportunity to create new therapeutic options for cancer patients.
BerGenBio’s lead product, BGB324, is a selective, potent and orally available small molecule AXL inhibitor. It is in Phase II clinical development, as a single agent and in combination with marketed immuno-oncology drugs, in three cancer indications with blockbuster potential:
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
- Advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)
The company is also developing a diversified pre-clinical pipeline of selective AXL inhibitors, including biologics and small molecules.
BerGenBio was established in 2007 by Bergen Teknologioverføring, Unifob AS and researches from the Department of Biomedicine at University of Bergen. In 2017 the company was accepted for listing at Oslo Børs. BerGenBio is the first company out of the BTO portfolio that will trade its shares on the stock market.
– BTO has been a valuable partner supporting BerGenBio in establishing a viable business, based on our deep understanding of the biology of aggressive cancers. They are straight forward to deal with and take a pragmatic approach in negotiations, says Richard Godfrey, CEO of BerGenBio.
The company consists of prominent and experienced researchers, such as the two founders, professor James Lorens and Dr. David Micklem. BerGenBio intends to develop its drug candidates itself and through strategic partnerships in multiple indications, and retains all options for the future commercialization of its products.
